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Explore the fascinating world of giant pumpkin growing and discover how it can make you a better gardener.
Join Scott Lehto, a competitive grower and soil health expert, as he shares his journey to growing record-breaking pumpkins and how the same principles of soil health, fertility, and microbiology can be applied to all gardening situations, whether it be growing better petunias, cucumbers, or roses.
Scott will delve into the technology, fertility analysis, and soil microbiology that underpin successful growing. He’ll also demonstrate how soil testing and hands-on analysis can improve your gardening results.
*Attendees are encouraged to bring a small soil sample for live analysis using Scott’s microscope, time permitting.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this session promises valuable insights and practical tips to help you maximize your yields and enhance your gardening skills.
Scott Lehto is a Senior Scientist at Comprehensive Environmental Inc. and a competitive grower based in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. Specializing in giant pumpkins, squash, tomatoes, and sunflowers, Scott is passionate about soil health and its role in successful farming. His expertise includes soil microbiology, chemistry, and fertility management, which he combines with his hands-on experience in competitive growing. In 2024, his son Alistair won the Youth Division at the Ridgefield, NH weigh-off with a 729-pound pumpkin, while Scott earned a blue ribbon for his family-best 1,156-pound pumpkin. Scott enjoys sharing his knowledge and inspiring others to explore the fascinating world of soil science.